“We have always opposed fracking in protected areas, so it is outrageous to see licences announced for fracking underneath three National Parks and five AONBs. With a fracking licence issued for the heart of the North York Moors, the National Park could suffer huge environmental, visual and infrastructure intrusion on its perimeter. This, and the process in general, makes a mockery of the Government’s manifesto pledge to ensure this remains ‘the most beautiful country in the world’.

“While it is unsurprising that the Government has wasted little time in offering licences following the vote yesterday, it is lamentable that ministers have wasted so much time in outlining the clear and promised safeguards we desperately need if fracking is to go ahead anywhere.”